Description
Black Milk – Album Of The Year – Double Gold Nugget Vinyl Records
Limited to 1000 copies, the VMP exclusive version of Black Milk\’s Album of the Year is pressed on Gold Nugget vinyl.
Deluxe edition of the rapper-producer\’s revolutionary 2009 LP
Pressed on exclusive 2LP gold nugget vinyl
Limited to 1000 foil-stamped & numbered copies
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Album of the Year is the fourth studio album by American rapper and producer Black Milk, released on September 14, 2010. Known for his intricate production style and sharp lyricism, Black Milk (Curtis Cross) is a key figure in the Detroit hip-hop scene. \”Album of the Year\” is a highly ambitious project that reflects on a tumultuous year in Black Milk\’s life, marked by personal loss, growth, and artistic evolution. The album showcases his dual talents as both a producer and an emcee, blending soulful, jazz-inflected beats with introspective, often gritty lyrics.
Black Milk emerged as a prominent figure in Detroit\’s underground hip-hop scene in the mid-2000s, following in the footsteps of legendary producer J Dilla, with whom he worked early in his career. Known for his ability to create beats that are both complex and accessible, Black Milk quickly established himself as one of the most innovative producers in hip-hop. His previous albums, including \”Popular Demand\” (2007) and \”Tronic\” (2008), were well-received for their innovative production and lyrical content.
Album of the Year was created during a period of significant personal and professional change for Black Milk. The title reflects the intense and transformative experiences he went through over the course of a year, including the death of his manager and mentor, Hex Murda, and the pressures of maintaining his career. The album is not just a declaration of artistic confidence but also a reflection on the highs and lows that shaped Black Milk during that time.
Album of the Year features a blend of soulful, jazz-influenced beats, intricate drum patterns, and introspective lyrics. The album is characterized by its live instrumentation, which adds a rich, organic feel to the production.
\”365\” – The opening track sets the tone for the album, with Black Milk reflecting on the ups and downs of the past year. The production features a driving beat, layered with soulful samples and live instrumentation, creating a powerful introduction to the album\’s themes.
\”Welcome (Gotta Go)\” – A high-energy track with a funky groove, \”Welcome\” features rapid-fire lyrics from Black Milk, addressing his ambitions and the challenges he faces in the music industry. The track\’s production is upbeat and dynamic, with live drums and bass providing a solid foundation.
\”Keep Going\” – One of the standout tracks on the album, \”Keep Going\” features a jazzy beat with prominent horns and a smooth, flowing rhythm. The lyrics are introspective, with Black Milk encouraging himself and listeners to persevere through difficult times.
\”Oh Girl\” – This track features a soulful sample and a more laid-back vibe, with lyrics that delve into the complexities of relationships. The smooth production and Black Milk\’s thoughtful lyrics make this a standout moment on the album.
\”Deadly Medley\” (feat. Royce da 5\’9\” and Elzhi) – A collaboration with fellow Detroit rappers Royce da 5\’9\” and Elzhi, \”Deadly Medley\” is a hard-hitting track that showcases the lyrical prowess of all three emcees. The beat is aggressive, with sharp drums and eerie samples, creating a dark, intense atmosphere.
\”Distortion\” – A track that lives up to its name, \”Distortion\” features a gritty, industrial beat with heavy bass and distorted samples. The lyrics explore the darker aspects of life and the music industry, with Black Milk delivering some of his most hard-hitting verses on the album.
\”Round of Applause\” – One of the more celebratory tracks on the album, \”Round of Applause\” features an upbeat, triumphant beat with bright horns and claps. The lyrics reflect on the journey and achievements, offering a moment of positivity amidst the album\’s more introspective tracks.
\”Warning (Keep Bouncing)\” – A fast-paced, energetic track with a bouncy beat and lively horns. The lyrics are a mix of braggadocio and reflection, with Black Milk showing off his lyrical agility.
\”Black and Brown\” (feat. Danny Brown) – This collaboration with fellow Detroit rapper Danny Brown is a highlight of the album, featuring a grimy beat and sharp, witty lyrics from both artists. The track\’s raw energy and the chemistry between Black Milk and Danny Brown make it a standout.
\”Gospel Psychedelic Rock\” – The closing track of the album is a sprawling, genre-blending piece that fuses elements of gospel, psychedelic rock, and hip-hop. The track is both ambitious and experimental, showcasing Black Milk\’s willingness to push the boundaries of his sound.
Album of the Year is a deeply personal project that reflects Black Milk\’s experiences during a pivotal year in his life. The album\’s themes revolve around perseverance, loss, growth, and the complexities of life in the music industry. Lyrically, Black Milk is both introspective and confident, balancing personal reflection with sharp social commentary and braggadocio.
The production on Album of the Year is one of its standout features. Black Milk incorporates live instrumentation throughout the album, blending jazz, soul, funk, and hip-hop into a cohesive sound. The beats are complex and layered, with intricate drum patterns, rich basslines, and carefully selected samples that add depth and texture to the tracks.
Album of the Year was well-received by critics, who praised Black Milk\’s production skills and the album\’s cohesive, yet diverse sound. The album was noted for its ambitious blending of genres and its introspective lyrical content, which gave listeners insight into Black Milk\’s life and mindset during a transformative period.
Although it didn’t achieve mainstream commercial success, Album of the Year solidified Black Milk\’s reputation as one of the most talented and innovative producers in hip-hop. The album is often cited as a high point in his discography and is appreciated by fans of underground and alternative hip-hop for its creativity and depth.
Album of the Year remains an important album in Black Milk\’s career, showcasing his ability to blend intricate production with thoughtful, introspective lyrics. The album is a testament to his skills as both a producer and an emcee, and it continues to be celebrated for its innovation and artistic ambition.
For fans of hip-hop, particularly those interested in the intersection of jazz, soul, and hip-hop, Album of the Year is an essential listen that offers a rich, rewarding experience. It captures a pivotal moment in Black Milk\’s career and stands as a strong example of the depth and diversity that hip-hop can offer.
Track Listing
365
Welcome (Gotta Go)
Keep Going
Oh Girl
Deadly Medley
Distortion
Over Again
Round Of Applause
Black And Brown / Mad Rapper Skit
Warning (Keep Bouncing)
Gospel Psychedelic Rock
Closed Chapter
